A heartbreaking tragedy has rocked a Louisiana university, leading to a major pause in student activities. Southern University, located in Baton Rouge, has temporarily stopped all club recruiting—including fraternities, sororities, and other student groups—after the sudden and suspicious death of a 20-year-old student, Caleb Wilson.
Caleb, a junior studying mechanical engineering, was found unresponsive in a local park early Thursday morning. People who discovered him rushed him to the hospital, but sadly, he didn’t make it. Police are calling his death “suspicious” and are investigating what happened. University officials believe the incident may be linked to an off-campus event involving a student organization, though they haven’t specified which one.
Caleb wasn’t just any student—he was a talented trumpet player in Southern University’s famous marching band, the Human Jukebox. His bandmates lovingly called him “Cheese,” and they remember him as someone who always had a smile on his face and a joke to share. Lonnie Robinson, a senior and leader of the trumpet section, said Caleb had “a lot of potential” and was a joy to be around. Derek Tabb, co-founder of the Roots of Music program where Caleb first learned to play trumpet, called him “a great kid with a great future.”
The news hit Caleb’s family hard. His dad, Corey Wilson, spent 35 years as a deputy with the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office and even worked security for Gayle Benson, owner of the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans. Benson released a heartfelt statement, calling Caleb’s death “senseless” and expressing her deep sadness for the Wilson family and the Southern University community.
In response to the tragedy, the university has put a hold on all club recruitment activities, including initiation events and new member inductions. Existing club activities can continue, but no new members can join for now. The goal is to allow time for healing and reflection while the investigation unfolds.
As the community mourns, friends and family are remembering Caleb for his bright personality and love of music. His death has left a void that won’t easily be filled. Meanwhile, Baton Rouge police are working to piece together what led to this devastating loss.
What do you think about the university’s decision to pause club activities? How should schools handle tragedies like this? Share your thoughts below.
